Upcoming Village Events
Summer at Courtyard Block Party Fundraiser
The Queen Village Neighbors Association (QVNA) is once again partnering with New Wave Café for its annual block party on May 16 from 2–10pm on the 300 block of Catharine Street to raise money for Summer at Courtyard. Come prepared for delicious local bites and beverages, bounce houses, live music, vendors, and a raffle full of top-shelf prizes, including Phillies and Eagles tickets, Foo Fighters, Shane Gillis, and Morgan Wallen tickets, Gift cards for local businesses, Beach chairs and coolers, and more. Buy your tickets in advance here!
“This event demonstrates everything great that is Queen Village. Our entire neighborhood coming together, partnering with an amazing local restaurant to help our community,” said Cait Allen, president of the Queen Village Neighbors Association.
Summer at Courtyard is a free summer camp for children who live at the Courtyard Apartments at Riverview. The six-week program is a mix of academics, athletics, civics, and weekly field trips. Courtyard, located at 4th and Washington, offers affordable housing for families, seniors, and reemerging citizens.
“This program is about access, opportunity, and community. The Courtyard Summer Enrichment Program ensures our youth have a place to grow, stay engaged, and be supported all summer long,” said Inez Green-Hatcher, President, Southwark Development Corporation.
The annual fundraiser, now in its fourth year, is co-hosted by New Wave Cafe (783 S. 3rd Street). Nestled in the heart of Queen Village, this beloved neighborhood gem is known for its laid-back vibe, delicious food, and strong ties to the community. This restaurant has been pivotal in fundraising for the camp.
“New Wave, in the heart of Queen Village, has always taken its civic responsibility seriously,” said Nate Ross, co-owner of the café. “Being a cancer survivor, being able to give back and help children go to summer camp just warms my heart.”
Love Your Park: Jefferson Square Park
Volunteer opportunity for the Jefferson Park clean up
The First British Invasion: Musicians of the British Isles in Late 18th-Century Philadelphia
The First British Invasion:
Musicians of the British Isles in Late 18th-Century Philadelphia
Sunday, January 18 from 3–4pm
Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church | 916 S. Swanson St.
In the late 18th century, Philadelphia saw a large influx of musicians from London and other areas of the British Isles, many coming at the personal invitation of the theater impresario and composer, Alexander Reingale. Musicians who performed with Joseph Haydn and Johann Peter Salomon, who played at the Drury Lane and Saddler’s Wells Theatres, church musicians, and musicians of the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens converged on the capital of the new nation, bringing skill, grit and an entrepreneurial spirit that changed the face of Philadelphia’s musical life. They founded the Musical Fund Society and cultivated musical culture, laying the groundwork for later organizations, such as The Philadelphia Orchestra. Music of Joseph Haydn, Rayner Taylor, Benjamin Carr, JGC Schetky, Hugh Reinagle, and Ignace Pleyel.
Tickets: $30 adult or $15 student w/ ID. Get tickets and artwork here.
Mother Bethel AME Church 38th Annual Church Growth Seminar
Mother Bethel AME Church 38th Annual Church Growth Seminar
January 12–14 | Mother Bethel AME Church | 419 S. 4th St.
Don’t miss your chance for a spot at the next Church Growth Seminar! This year’s topic is Reviving Our Connection to Evangelism. Participants can attend virtually or in person. Click here for more information and to register.
Stand Up to Falls With Triad Fitness
Stand Up to Falls With Triad Fitness
Friday, January 9 at 11am | Old Pine Community Center | 401 Lombard St.
Join Triad Fitness for a program designed specifically for older adults who want to improve their balance, build strength, and regain confidence in everyday movement.
The class is led by Coach Steve, a movement specialist with over 15 years of experience helping older adults stay strong, steady, and independent. Thanks to support from Independence Blue Cross, the first class on January 9 is completely free to attend.
Each 45-minute class includes a simple balance assessment, strength and mobility exercises to reduce fall risk, seated and standing options for all fitness levels, and a welcoming, supportive group environment. Queen Village residents can sign up or just show up — all are welcome. Learn more here.
With Liberty and Justice for … A Few
With Liberty and Justice for … A Few
Thursday, January 8 at 7pm
Gloria Dei (Old Swedes') Church | 916 S. Swanson St.
Philadelphia’s Black, Jewish, and Catholic residents all made major contributions to the wondrous fair celebrating America’s 150th birthday. Yet each were treated very differently by the fair’s managers and by the city government, reflecting the prejudices of America in the 1920s. Irish Catholics used the fair to trumpet their emergence into the city’s power structure. Despite their major financial and organizational contributions to the fair, Jewish residents were reviled and attacked by anti-Semites, starting with Henry Ford and his Dearborn Independent. Black Philadelphians struggled to make their presence felt given the widespread racism of the day, and saw their major projects sabotaged by fair executives. All this occurred against a backdrop that included eugenics, anti-immigration agitation, and a planned visit by 100,000 Ku Klux Klan members for their 1926 Klonvokation, all with the blessing of Philadelphia’s city fathers.
Kundalini Workshop | Wild & Wise
Kundalini Workshop | Wild & Wise
Thursday, January 8 from 6:30–7:30pm | Full Moon Blends | 250 South Street
Wild & Wise is an empowering blend of somatic movement, dynamic breathwork, and vibrational meditation. Kundalini yoga works deep in the subconscious and energetic body to clear old stories and awaken renewed strength. Designed with women 40+ in mind—but open to all—this class is a reclamation of vitality, resilience, and radiance. Space is limited; reserve early.
Bring a yoga mat and optional meditation cushion. A journal is welcome for insights that may arise. Class is held on Jan 8, Feb 5 and Mar 5. Cost is $30 per class, or book all 3 for $80 and save 11%. Register here.
2025 Kwanzaa Village at Mother Bethel AME
2025 Kwanzaa Village at Mother Bethel AME
Saturday, December 27 from 10am–3pm
Sunday, December 28 from 11am–2pm
Mother Bethel AME Church | 419 S. 6th St.
Mother Bethel AME Church invites you to experience the joy and richness of the holiday season at the 2025 Kwanzaa Village—a two-day celebration of culture, connection, and community!
Join us for local vendors & handmade goods, delicious food and treats, and live drumming & cultural expressions.
Come shop, learn, and celebrate the principles of Kwanzaa with family, friends, and neighbors. All are welcome! Vendors are welcome. Click here to register as a vendor.
2025 Kwanzaa Village at Mother Bethel AME
2025 Kwanzaa Village at Mother Bethel AME
Saturday, December 27 from 10am–3pm
Sunday, December 28 from 11am–2pm
Mother Bethel AME Church | 419 S. 6th St.
Mother Bethel AME Church invites you to experience the joy and richness of the holiday season at the 2025 Kwanzaa Village—a two-day celebration of culture, connection, and community!
Join us for local vendors & handmade goods, delicious food and treats, and live drumming & cultural expressions.
Come shop, learn, and celebrate the principles of Kwanzaa with family, friends, and neighbors. All are welcome! Vendors are welcome. Click here to register as a vendor.
Christmas Services at St. Peter’s Church
Christmas Services at St. Peter’s Church
Wednesday, December 24 at 5 & 8pm
Thursday, December 25 at 10am
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church | 313 Pine St.
Come celebrate Christmas at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church! On Christmas Eve, there will be a relaxed, less formal service at 5pm, and a traditional festive service with organ and choir at 8pm (preceded by music prelude at 7:30pm). There will also be a joyous service at 10am Christmas Morning. All are welcome! Learn more here.
Holiday Concert at Mother Bethel AME Church
Holiday Concert at Mother Bethel AME Church
Sunday, December 21 at 6pm | 419 S. 6th St.
Step into the season with an evening of beautiful holiday music at Mother Bethel AME Church. Enjoy live performances in a historic and welcoming space—a perfect way to pause, reflect, and celebrate the spirit of the holidays. The concert will be led by Brother Pyerce Oates, Minister of Music and Arts. All are welcome. Bring family, friends, and holiday cheer!
Brunch with Santa Claus
Brunch with Santa Claus
Sunday, December 21 from 10am–2pm
Capri Restaurant | 757 S. Front St.
Join us at Capri Restaurant for a magical Brunch with Santa Claus! Bring the whole family for a festive day filled with holiday cheer. Outside, Santa’s beautiful sleigh and reindeers will be set up for unforgettable photos, and kids can enjoy decorating their own holiday cookies at a special station.
Enjoy free photos with Santa. Our photographer will capture the moment and email the pictures directly to parents. There’s no cover charge, simply make a reservation and create cozy Christmas memories at Capri.
Yule Celebration
Yule Celebration
Thursday, December 18 from 6–7pm | Full Moon Blends | 250 South Street
Celebrate the Yule season with us at the Shop! Guests will create their own pomander to take home and enjoy all season long! Made by studding an orange with whole cloves, this fragrant symbol represents the return of the Sun marked by the Winter Solstice on December 21st. Cost covers all materials and light refreshments but BYOB for more fun! Sign up here.
Menorah Lighting at Headhouse Square
Menorah Lighting at Headhouse Square
Thursday, December 18 at 5pm
Join us for a celebratory night of light refreshments and togetherness. Local rabbis will be leading the community in prayer and song. The gathering begins at 5pm with the menorah lighting at 5:30pm.
Mario Lanza Howliday Party Fundraiser
Mario Lanza Howliday Party Fundraiser
Tuesday, December 16 from 6–9pm
Paddy Whacks Irish Pub | 150 South Street
Join us for our annual holiday party at Paddy Whacks Irish Pub! Celebrate the holidays with friends and neighbors while we raise money to fund the park for another wonderful year. Expect a tail-wagging good time filled with music, laughter, and community.
This event is for dog owners and non-dog owners alike! Enjoy a 10% discount when you buy two or more tickets; each includes a buffet dinner, open bar, two raffle tickets, and a goodie bag.
Kids are welcome! Discounted tickets for kids are available at checkout.
Questions? Email us at mariolanzadogpark@qvna.org.
All proceeds benefit the Friends of Mario Lanza Dog Park, a fiscally sponsored group of QVNA! Your donation is tax deductible. Buy your tickets here.
Phestivus at Moyamensing Point
Phestivus
Saturday, December 13 from 6–7pm
Moyamensing Point | 2nd & Christian
Come join neighbors as Santa arrives on a firetruck, a choir sings holiday carols, and homemade snacks and treats are served!
We will also have a holiday toy drive, so please bring new, unwrapped toy donations. Toys will be distributed to local families by the South St Police Mini Station and Toys for Tots by Engine 3. For more information, click here.
Handmade Market at Fleisher Art Memorial
Handmade Market at Fleisher Art Memorial
Saturday, December 13 from 11am–5pm
719 Catharine St.
Handmade is an indoor, juried craft market organized by Fleisher Art Memorial to showcase and support local vendors and artists. Featuring a wide array of handmade and artisanal goods, this annual market is the perfect place to find unique holiday gifts at a variety of price points to fit every budget.
Annual Powel House Holiday Party
Annual Powel House Holiday Party
Sunday, December 7 from 5–8pm
Powel House | 244 S. 3rd St.
Join the Powel House Committee to celebrate the season on Sunday, December 7th with a festive holiday buffet, seasonal favorites and delicious hors d'oeuvres, signature holiday cocktails, as well as wine, beer, and other beverages.
Enjoy a live caroling performance by the renowned Orpheus Club of Philadelphia, followed by a silent auction featuring unique gifts, experiences, and holiday treasures.
Come mingle with friends and neighbors while enjoying beautiful holiday music, delicious food, and the excitement of our silent auction. The evening promises warmth, wonderful company, and the perfect start to your holiday season. Festive attire encouraged! Learn more and reserve your tickets here.
Winter Magic Artist Show at 3rd Street Gallery
Winter Magic Artist Show at 3rd Street Gallery
Sunday, December 7 from 2–4pm | 610 S. 3rd St.
Please join us at our opening reception for our members’ show, Winter Magic. We hope to see you there!
Santa Comes to Shot Tower
Santa Comes to Shot Tower
Saturday, December 6 from 10am–12pm
101–31 Carpenter St.
Join the Friends of Shot Tower's (FOST) annual Santa Comes to Shot Tower event. This year, FOST is taking some time to dedicate a small library to our beloved Mike Townsend, who we lost this September. Townsend worked at Shot Tower for over two decades and was a neighborhood fixture.
Winter on the Waterfront
Winter on the Waterfront
Saturday, December 6 from 10am–5pm
Independence Seaport Museum
211 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd.
‘Tis the sea-son to be festive at the Independence Seaport Museum! Ring in the holidays by joining the second annual Winter on the Waterfront. Visitors of all ages can participate in day-long crafts and activities, such as making seaport snowflakes, knot tying ornaments, crafting gingerbread boats in the Seaport Boat Shop (11am–12pm), and holiday tours aboard the Olympia (12pm and 3:30pm). Tours are roughly 45 minutes long). Admission is free for ISM members!
Meet Your Elected Officials!
Meet Your Elected Officials!
Thursday, December 4 from 6:30–8pm
Old Pine Community Center | 401 Lombard St.
QVNA, Society Hill Civic Association, Washington Square West Civic Association, and Bella Vista Neighbors Association are proud to cohost a special joint community meeting on December 4. Joining us will be Rep. Mary Isaacson, Councilmember Mark Squilla, and Controller Christy Brady, where they will share their offices’ current legislative priorities and conduct a Q&A with constituents. We hope to see you there!